The band released a free download of a their 2011 cover of You Are My Sunshine as a consolation prize.

Bad news from indie-folk duo The Civil Wars – it’s over for Joy Williams and John Paul White. By “it” we mean the partnership, although the former bandmates will likely continue performing after the split. The four-time Grammy winners have been on hiatus since 2012, over "internal discord and irreconcilable differences of ambition."

The band enjoyed short-lived success together.

The pair met in 2008 during a song-writing session or "writing camp" at a music studio in Nashville, Tennessee. They released their first recording the following year, from a live performance at Eddie’s Attic in Georgia. Their first studio record was the Poison & Wine EP released later that year. The band enjoyed short-lived success, winning two Grammys for their sophomore album Barton Hollow, one for the Taylor Swift collaboration Safe & Sound and one for From This Valley, off their final album.

To make the announcement easier for their fans, the band released a free download of their rendition of You Are My Sunshine, recorded in 2010. The duo released the song in 2011 as a B-side to their limited edition Barton Hollow vinyl.

Williams made a vague reference to the solo career ahead. In her personal statement, quoted via USA Today the singer said: “Looking ahead, I'm excited to share the music that I am writing and recording in the midst of this difficult transition. I've loved being back in the studio, and have missed performing live. I look forward to seeing you soon.”

White did not reference his own music, but he did thank the fans for supporting the duo’s music: “I would like to express sincere thanks to all who were a part of the arc of The Civil Wars — from the beginning, to the end, and all points in between. My deep appreciation goes out to all who supported, disseminated, and enjoyed the music. Whatever shape or form the next chapter takes, thanks for being a large part of this one."